Holly
( Ilex aquifolium )
It is mostly a shrub, sometimes a tree that can grow up to 10-15 meters tall. The leaves are persistent, leathery, oval, with broadly toothed edges and the tops of the teeth are spiny. The flowers are dioecious and occur in clusters. Its fruit is round and bright red. It grows in North Africa, Western and Southern Europe and Western Asia to China. It reduces fever, makes the body sweat and relaxes. The inner shell of the fruit is used in making mistletoe. Its wood is very hard, heavy and dark in color. It takes a very good polish. It is used in lathery, veneer and gear tooth making. Its tender branches are used to make whip handles. It is also grown as an ornamental plant.
